Care & Maintenance of the Fairy Lily

by Michelle Fortunato

Native to South America, the star-shaped fairy lilies (Zephyranthes candida) bloom profusely in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 11. Also known as rain lilies and Zephyr lilies, they dazzle as groundcover and along walls and borders as well as in flower gardens, patio containers or as houseplants. These resilient perennials also grow in the wild and will resume flowering after a dry spell, if given a good drenching.

Planting and Pruning

In early spring, plant fairy lily bulbs at a depth of two to three times their diameter, about 4 inches apart, in well-drained loam. Cover with 1 to 3 inches of mulch, which helps to slow water evaporation in hot, dry weather. These fast-growing, semi-evergreens thrive in partial to full sun. Fairy lily plants reach a height of up to 15 inches, boasting showy, 2-inch pink and white blossoms in late spring, throughout summer and into early fall. Remove faded and dead flowers to promote new growth. Thin any excess foliage.

Water and Fertilizer

Water fairy lily plants in the morning before the sun is on them. Night watering may cause pooling that can lead to root problems. Feed in the early stages of the growing cycle with a balanced fertilizer. Mix water-soluble fertilizer according to container directions. Wet the plant leaves before soaking the soil with the fertilizer solution. If you're using a slow-release, all-purpose granulated fertilizer, lightly scatter the mixture beneath the plants, starting at the stem then continuing to the outer branches and leaves. Slowly drench the soil with water. Fertilize carefully -- too much fertilizer causes an over abundance of weak undergrowth and only a small number of flowers.

Propagation

After the blooms are gone, and before the first frost in fall, dig and divide the new, dormant bulbs that formed around the bottom of the old ones. If you do this while the fairy lilies are in bloom, they may not flower the following year. Store the bulbs in a cool location in peat moss or vermiculite, maintaining a minimal amount of moisture. Replant the bulbs into well-draining soil in the spring.

Concerns

Although fairy lilies don't generally have disease or pest problems, at least one related species, Z. atamasco, contains alkaloid and lycorine compounds, poisons known to be highly toxic. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can occur if any parts of this plant are ingested, particularly the bulb, and conditions could worsen and become fatal.

About the Author

Based in Connecticut, Michelle Fortunato has been writing since 1995. Her articles have appeared in several magazines, including "Guide," "The Family Digest," "Leaves" and "My Walk with Jesus" as well as online at History's Women. Fortunato began web content writing in 2009. She holds certificates in writing from the Institute of Children's Literature.

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